superstorm sandy may be part of the reason, worry over the fiscal cliff may have also had an impact. some estimate at least 200,000 fewer jobs have been created this year, due to urn certainty about the fiscal cliff. -- >> reporter: >> the president: it is important we get this done now. >> reporter: in washington republicans and democrats are talking, no breakthrough locked in a stalemate. president obama demanding higher tax rates for the wealthy and permanent extension of the debt ceiling be part of a deal. >> he showed what is he is after is assuming unprecedented power without limit. >> reporter: republicans say they will only raise tax revenue in exchange for deep spending cuts. if washington can't strike a deal one casualty would be the end of compensation for long term unemployed, people like melinda worried. >> christmas and things of that nature probably off the table. >> reporter: aides met yesterday but no signs of progress. tahman bradley, abc7 news. >>> if you park at a bart station while riding the trains get ready for potential hike in fees by 50 cents twice a year at